D8 – Digital Nomad

The Portugal 2025 Digital Nomad Visa is the ideal solution for remote workers who wish to live and work legally in Portugal this year. This visa allows freelancers, remote employees, and digital entrepreneurs to enjoy all the benefits of Portuguese residency without the need for investment or retirement. If you are considering applying for the Portugal 2025 Digital Nomad Visa, the D8 visa offers a flexible and accessible path to start your new life in Portugal. With the Portugal 2025 Digital Nomad Visa, you can work remotely while enjoying the vibrant culture and high quality of life that Portugal offers.

As an immigration lawyer in Portugal, I have guided many clients through this process. This is your updated, legally based guide to everything you need to know about the D8 visa in 2025, from requirements and tax implications to practical tips and bureaucratic challenges.

---

📌 What is the D8 visa for digital nomads in Portugal?

Launched in 2022, the D8 visa is a residence visa for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who work remotely for foreign companies or clients. Unlike tourist or study visas, it grants the right to live—and in some cases, work—legally in Portugal for an extended period.

✅ It is intended for people with active income, not for retirees or passive investors.

Main Benefits:

• Living legally in Portugal for up to 2 years (renewable);

• Apply for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years;

• Bringing your family together through family reunification;

• Travel freely within the Schengen area;

• Access to public services, healthcare system and education in Portugal.

---

✅ Who can apply for the D8 visa in 2025?

To qualify, candidates must meet specific financial, professional, and legal requirements. Here's what you'll need to prove:

⚠️ Important: All documents issued outside of Portugal must be translated and apostilled.

---

🔄 Types of D8 visas: Temporary stay vs. Residence permit

There are two types of D8 visas, each with distinct obligations and benefits:

1. Temporary Stay Visa (up to 12 months)

   • Ideal for short-term digital nomads;

   • It does not establish tax residency;

   • No obligation to open a Portuguese bank account.

2. Residence Visa (2 years, renewable)

   • Grants full residency authorization;

   • Eligible for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years;

   • Application for tax residency in Portugal;

   • Possibility of family reunification.

💡 Not sure which one to choose? A legal consultation can help you define the best strategy according to your lifestyle, goals, and tax situation.

---

📋 Step-by-step guide to applying for the D8 visa

Applying for a D8 visa involves several steps. Careful preparation is essential.

Step 1: Gather necessary documents

• Valid passport

• Proof of income (last 3 months)

• Remote work contracts

• Proof of accommodation

• Criminal record certificate

• Health insurance

• Tax Identification Number (NIF)

• Letter of motivation

Step 2: Schedule an appointment

Apply for the visa at the Portuguese consulate (or at the VFS) in your country of legal residence.

⚠️ Applications submitted within Portugal are generally not accepted.

Step 3: Submit your application.

Some consulates require completion of online forms before the in-person interview.

Step 4: Attend the visa interview.

Bring all original documents and certified translations. Be prepared to explain your work and plans in Portugal.

Step 5: Wait for processing

The decision usually takes between 60 and 90 days, but delays are common.

Step 6: Travel to Portugal

After approval, you must enter Portugal within 120 days. Then, schedule an appointment with AIMA (formerly SEF) to obtain your residence permit.

---

💶 Costs and financial planning

Check out the approximate costs involved:

---

🧾 Fiscal implications in 2025

1. End of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Regime
   . As of January 2024, the NHR regime is closed to new applications. If you applied before the deadline, you can continue to benefit for up to 10 years.

2. Tax residency in Portugal:
   You are considered a tax resident if:

• To remain in the country for more than 183 days per year, or

• Maintain habitual residence in Portugal.

3. Fees and obligations

• Progressive income tax (14.5% to 48%);

• Freelancers pay social security contributions (~21.4%);

• VAT registration is required if annual income exceeds €12,500;

• Portugal has agreements to avoid double taxation with several countries.

🧑‍💼 Tip: Always consult a tax advisor with knowledge of the tax systems in Portugal and your country of origin.

---

🏠 Living in Portugal as a digital nomad

Housing

• Lisbon: €1,200–€1,500/month

• Porto: €1,000–€1,400/month

• Coimbra, Braga: €500–€900/month

• Co-living: popular among digital nomads (€400–€800/month)

Health:
Access to the National Health Service (NHS) after local registration. Many nomads also maintain private insurance for greater flexibility and agility, which I recommend.

Education (for families)

• Public schools: free, but taught in Portuguese.

• International schools: €5,000–€20,000/year

• English language options in Lisbon, Porto and Algarve

Integration

• Strong expatriate networks in Lisbon, Porto and Madeira.

• Free or affordable Portuguese courses

• Fast internet and widely available coworking spaces

---

⚠️ Challenges to consider

Despite its advantages, the D8 visa has some points to consider:

• A high minimum wage may limit access for entry-level freelancers;

• Bureaucracy and delays are frequent;

• Competitive rental market in Lisbon and Porto;

• Complex tax rules require careful planning.

---

📊 D8 vs Other Portuguese Visas

---

🌍 D8 Visa Compared to Other Countries

---

🏙️ Best cities for digital nomads in Portugal

• Lisbon: tech hub, excellent coworking spaces, large expat community

• Porto: accessible, peaceful, good infrastructure

• Madeira: a village for digital nomads + island lifestyle

• Faro: beaches, peaceful in winter, growing community

• Braga: peaceful, historic, with a lower cost.

---

✅ Final thoughts: Is the D8 visa worth it?

Absolutely, if you meet the financial and work criteria. The D8 visa offers a clear, legal, and structured path to living and working in one of Europe's most desirable countries.

Whether you're looking to build your career, start a family, or seek a new chapter in life, Portugal offers safety, a pleasant climate, a welcoming community, and long-term opportunities.

---

💬 Do you need legal support for your application?

Consult a qualified immigration attorney to receive personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs.

---

🔁 FAQ – Quick Questions

Can I apply for a visa while in Portugal on a tourist visa?
No.

Is it mandatory to present a rental agreement to apply?
Yes, proof of accommodation is mandatory.

Can I leave Portugal with a D8 visa?
Yes, it's a multiple-entry visa. However, it's essential to spend the majority of your time in Portugal, especially for renewals or residency, completing 6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months per year.

What if my income drops after I get the visa?
Renewals may be jeopardized. Consult a lawyer if your financial situation changes.

Can I use a coworking space as proof of address?
No. A residential lease or property ownership document is required.

Want to read more? Check out other posts [HERE].